Earls A Likely Starter On Tuesday ?

Given that he has only played six minutes of rugby although selected as a replacement for both the South Africa and Samoan November Internationals, it would appear logical that Keith Earls will get to run out with Munster on Tuesday night in Thomond Park Stadium ?

Why he hasn't been given further game time is hard to understand but may work in Munster's favour and also provide the player himself with the opportunity to impress the Ireland management ahead of the game against the All Blacks.

Munster will have to wait to see how players have come through yesterday's bruiser with Samoa before knowing exactly who will be available to them for selection for the Australia game but Damien Varley is another who may be available as might Johne Murphy.

The newly arrived Peter Borlase can be expected to be pressed into action and that could see a front row of Wian du Preez, Varley and, with Tony Buckley injured and John Hayes surely not available, Borlase at thigh-head prop. The rest of the pack will include a mix of Development and experienced heads while with the likes of Doug Howlett, Sam Tuitupou, Denis Hurley, Barry Murphy and if available Earls and Murphy Johne plus Scott Deasy, the backline will have a very potent hue about it.

The Australians arrive in Limerick this morning and will be in UL this afternoon for a training run.